CGlobal, the EPR consulting division of H2 Compliance, had the opportunity to attend the International Congress on Waste Management in Mexico City, held as part of Residuos Expo 2026, a multi-day event from March 4–6 that brought together industry, government, and key stakeholders across the waste, recycling, and circular economy value chain.
The Expo provided a valuable platform to connect with companies offering collection, logistics, and recycling solutions in Mexico. The Congress featured a series of conferences and panels addressing innovative case studies, analysis of the current regulatory framework and key stakeholders, as well as operational challenges and regulatory developments shaping the sector.
A key topic throughout the Congress was the recently enacted General Law of Circular Economy (Ley General de Economía Circular). Sessions included input from experts and a representative from SEMARNAT, who shared the government’s perspective and early considerations for the development of the upcoming regulation and broader implementation approach.
One of the main takeaways is that the law is not intended to replace existing waste regulations, but to complement them by focusing on upstream elements such as product design and lifecycle. Implementation is expected to be gradual and shaped through sector-specific approaches. In line with the six-month period following the law’s enactment, the implementing regulation is expected by July 18, which should provide greater clarity on timelines and obligations. It was also clear that industry participation will play a key role in shaping both the regulation and subsequent agreements.
International perspectives were also part of the discussion. Several sessions explored how more mature systems, particularly in Europe, have evolved through structured frameworks, extended producer responsibility mechanisms, and strong coordination between public and private stakeholders. These discussions were complemented by companies currently operating in Mexico, sharing how circular economy principles are already being applied in practice.
Across multiple sessions, a consistent message was the gap between current system capabilities and the ambition of the new framework. Challenges around infrastructure, fragmented responsibilities at the municipal level, and limited traceability within the current waste management system were highlighted as key areas that will need to be addressed for effective implementation.
The Congress took place at a particularly relevant moment for Mexico, as the circular economy framework begins to take shape and drive conversations across the sector. The transition will depend not only on regulatory development, but also on strengthening infrastructure, improving traceability, and enabling closer collaboration between public and private stakeholders.
Next Steps: Preparing for the General Law of Circular Economy
As the discussions at Residuos Expo 2026 made clear, the transition to a circular model in Mexico is no longer a theoretical concept; it is a regulatory reality. With the implementing regulations expected this July, the window for businesses to move from observation to action is narrowing. Understanding the nuances of these new mandates is essential for any company operating in the Mexican market.
To help you navigate these changes, we invite you to download our complimentary deep-dive analysis, “Mexico’s General Law on Circular Economy: Setting the Foundation of the EPR Landscape.“ This resource provides a clear roadmap through the new regulatory requirements, including a detailed impact assessment for manufacturers and a strategic breakdown of the upcoming Gestión Circular filing requirements. Don’t let the 2026 shift catch your business off guard; secure the insights you need to ensure continued market access today.
Published March 19th, 2026